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Thursday, February 28, 2013

Challenges of Going Pro

One of the major challenges of turning sewing blogging into a career is that often you can't blog about what you're working on. For instance, right now I'm developing the patterns for my next book while also hard at work on two new Butterick patterns. While it would be fun to show you every step of the process, my publishers would, quite frankly, not be pleased. (And I like to think you all enjoy the surprise of a big reveal once something is released. What lady doesn't like to make a grand entrance?) I also have an incredibly full teaching schedule right now (teaching my first college level courses and still doing private lessons as well) that is eating up most of my sewing time.

Every now and then I'll get a comment noting that my blog has changed--that I don't blog what I'm sewing as much as I used to, or it seems like I'm just promoting my "products" (oddly, I don't think of my book or my patterns as products, that seems too clinical a word for something that so much of myself has gone into). Unless I give up sleeping, the only way to turn my blog back into what it was 3 years ago would be to get an office job, break all my current contracts, and just sew for fun. I hope you'll forgive me for not wanting to do that! (Though maybe I could get a job in a fabric store instead of an office. Yeah, that would be awesome.)

I guess this post is really about stress, which I know we can all relate to. As modern women, we're pulled in so many different directions: career, family, basic life chores, email inboxes, bills, etc. Often taking care of ourselves is last on the list of priorities. We're also used to saying yes to everything and trying to please everyone, right? Sometimes it feels like we're all just scraping by, doing lots of stuff but not doing any of it as well as we would like. I've certainly made my share of mistakes along the way. Scratch that, I know I've made more than my share.

I suppose I'm just trying to say I'm doing the best I can to keep all the balls in the air, but I've also learned that being successful means knowing which balls to juggle. (Does it make me immature that every time I type "balls" I giggle inside?)

Hmm, I think I just wrote a post about my feelings. I hope you don't mind! And if, by some chance you actually enjoy reading stuff like this, there's plenty more where this came from.

P.S. In lieu of any sewing photos, here are some shots of me hanging out with Henry and Rosie. Almost as good as dresses? (Also, have I mentioned that I'm learning to play the ukulele? Great stress relief!)

Hi GertieI love your book and patterns and I am so grateful for your willingness to share your knowledge and inspiration with the sewing community. I do miss seeing your current sewing projects (and I am sure you miss producing and wearing them), but I am really excited for your new direction. The information you provide has really helped me develop my sewing skills and I would love it if you could come and teach a class near me!

Naturally we love your blog and therefore miss your posts when you're unable to post as frequently as before. But I'm sure the vast majority of your readers are super excited for you to be basically living the sewist's dream. And also, this blog was never JUST about sewing - I've always hugely appreciated your articles on feminist topics, ethical fashion and the like.

I commend you for your tact and I think you're doing a great job of balancing real life and this blog. Frankly, little raises my ire on this blog more than someone complaining about this blog being all advertising. For all of the tips, tutorials and inspiration you've shared with us, I think you deserve to make money from it if the opportunity presents itself. Blog reading is voluntary, after all.

Hey - I've not been a multi year reader, but I have been following for about a year. Yes your blog has changed, even in that short time, but the great thing about a blog, as opposed to a book, is that it changes, and it grows and it morphs. I think it's like being able to read someones diary - you might not always be 100% on board with what written, but most of the time it's a thrill to read. Sorry, I'm running on here. I do enjoy your blog, and watching the changes as they happen. And I'm a big fan of the book(soon to be "s") and the patterns you have developed. Keep on keeping on Gertie!

I think that the complaints you receive probably say a lot about the people who send them as well. It's funny that they complain about the product thing, since they seem to your blog as a "product" for them to consume. Maybe they don't necessarily see you as a person with a life to live, or a smart, evolving woman who is able to respond to her rapidly changing environment and take advantage of opportunities. For me, and I suspect I speak for many, you are living the dream: experiencing real success in making a career out of doing something you enjoy. Unfortunately, this is very rare. I get so much pleasure from reading about your business adventures as well as your sewing. I do miss you when you're absent, but I have a life outside of blogging and I understand that you do too. Finally, good for you for managing your stress with kitties, puppies, and music! Very healthy!

This is my favourite comment! So encouraging! I agree with it all. You're blog is so much better than a book because you've graciously invited us to be alongside you on your exciting and busy adventures. KNOW that YOU ARE APPRECIATED.

I've never commented before even though I've followed your blog for about 18 months. You've inspired me to get back into sewing and having received your book this xmas, I've been getting such a kick out of making your clothes. I agree with Katrina, yes your blog is changing, but hasn't this blog always been about you, not just your sewing, and if you have pattern designs and books out, we want to know about it ! well i do and what your cats and dog and husband are up to.

Well spoken! It's so right that some people seem to think that it's all about *them* when a blog is the author's space to do what they will. They act as though choosing to write something and put it out there publicly obligates your to only do/post things that please the people who read it. I think somehow this expectation goes along with the cultural demand that women put others first, and it's interesting from a sociological point of view to see bloggers feel the need to apologize for, rationalize, excuse or explain away personal success or change. I think everyone is more susceptible to negative feedback than positive. The truth is, though, that you have every right to provide whatever kind of content you want, regardless of thee whining of a few people who tend to post anonymously.

You have the right to write about whatever you want. I love your new direction; I think it's awesome you can make money doing what you love (and that I can PAY YOU REAL MONEY as thanks for the awesome tips you give).

We all have to progress. After all we all don't wear the same clothes we did as young teens or probably listen to the same bands or wear the same makeup. Blogs are more or less the same they reflect where you are at that present time. Looking forward to the big reveal.

Even though you can't share your current projects with us, I love all the tips/tricks you've taught us so far! The first wearable garment I made was the full, gathered skirt from your tutorial, and I've got my fabric to tackle the portrait blouse next - with a hand-picked zipper! Maybe you could do some me-made outfit posts, just to give us some more inspiration without upsetting your publishers. :) I'd love to know what your favorite me-made garments are so far!

We can't do it all. No we can't. This is something I struggle with every day. Because I have a full time job and a personal blog to maintain, sewing is not the last thing I get to do but it is definitely pushed to the backburner. I don't complete projects as fast as other bloggers and it frustrates the hell out of me. I'm slowly learning to put on my blinders and only focus on what I want and not get side tracked by others.

I love this metaphor that says life is a balancing act: During life, you're walking on a tight rope. You'll sway to the left and you'll sway to the right but at long as you stay standing, you're accomplishing something.

Lovely post Gertie! I think readers who follow you really like you as a person and not just consume the sewing knowledge. I personally juggle a lot too, way less successfully (to my soul) than you, so I am really happy to see how your career and hobby combined. To tell you the whole truth, and after reading a hard comment in one of the previous posts, I think there was some misunderstanding with what happened on craftsy, that left people a bit disappointed and confused, maybe cause they read you blog about just about anything than that. Maybe a post addressing that would be a good idea, but I really don't know what is the deal. Also it's hard living a public life, people feel like they own you.. I love your book, blog and "voice", and as far as I am concerned, sharing is good:)

I miss being a kid, but hey, we all grow up and can't relive the past. And this little blog is all grown up!! And I love to see your new patterns and have the opportunity to sew them myself. So, thank you Gertie for all your hard work. You are awesome!!

Yes this blog has changed, that is a good thing. It clearly illustrates how much the blog world has influenced the real world. Sadly, the view is different for some who cannot recognize how empowering this can be. You are doing well, my dear, Bravo! What a great inspiration you have been and continue to be.

Totes agree with this comment and most of the others. The thing I love most about your blog is reading your exciting announcements (book, patterns, teaching...). You have contributed SO MUCH to this community for free for years, it's so inspiring that you are able to take your passion seriously and make it such a big part of your life. I find it really sad that for some people it's seen as "selling out" to make a career out of doing what you love - for me, I feel that remaining an employee of someone else's company if your heart's not fully in it is more worthy of the accusation of "selling out" than that, if anything.

Even a multinational company can't please everyone, and you're one person. No, you're not going to be able to write regular blog posts while juggling so much work. No, you're not going to be able to make patterns in sizes that fit everyone. If you tried, you wouldn't even be able to get started. The Internet is a wonderful thing, offering so much and mainly for free, but when we start to get too demanding upon one person it's time to question how much we're expecting and how much we're contributing in return.

And I'll say it again - this is one of my favourite blogs precisely because of the fact it allows us to read about and feel inspired - SO INSPIRED! - by your success xxx

You shouldn't feel bad that your blog has taken a different turn because things have been going so well for you. I get annoyed when I see people complaining on blogs about content changing or about the quality of content - I think they forget about all the AMAZING stuff and inspiration they get from blogs for absolutely free, and all that content takes skill, time and effort to create. Enjoy your success, you've earned it x

THANK YOU!! You have been such an inspiration for my sewing, and such an influence in my everyday life-you have no idea! Your blog, your book, your patterns, and you remind me that we can each keep evolving, learning, and improving upon our craft--even shifting our original focus to include something new and exciting. I am so happy that you have grown into an author, pattern maker, teacher, and speaker in addition to being a lovely blogger. Honestly, your blog showed me (long before I had my own blog) that it was okay to try something new, that sewing wasn't antiquated, and that there is an amazing support network of other ladies out there who love the same things I do. I won't lie--I do miss seeing every step of your work because it is so great, but I am so glad that you have so many new opportunities because that means that we get to see more of YOU! You have given us all so much. I am so happy that you are getting something back as well!xoxo

Dearest Gertie,I love checking to see if your blog has a new update each morning before teaching. My office mates are all quite familiar with the ongoing saga of your pink hair. I write personal essays, and understand the odd space we as crafters inhabit when we create artifacts that are so much a part of us. (I'm actually working on an essay about the on-line community based around vintage sewing, and my personal stakes in this created space. The body of the essay will form pieces of a pattern envelope!) Conversely though, readers know when they stumble upon an artifact that feels authentic, and suddenly there's a want to know more about the crafter. When readers ask for more, feel proud--you've given us a gift of authenticity that we all crave. I thank you, Gertie, for the wealth of knowledge you have thus far shared with all of us as your readers. I search your blog first if I ever need a tutorial on something sewing related. And I consume each new post like I would a piece of smooth dark chocolate--slowly--so the experience leaves me satisfied. Thank you for your words.

Gertie, I love your honesty. As someone who's hobby/blog turned to work as well I also find myself with less blogging material - since that same material goes into my work as a design journalist now. I wish I had a solution but maybe just knowing that you're not alone would help? And I'm also thinking that we'd all love to read more about the process and what goes into creating those patterns/books, even if you can't get into specifics of the projects you're working on right now, but about your past projects. xo Chedva

Haters gonna hate...you contributed a lot to your readers for a long time. I dont think people always appreciate how much effort goes into creating patterns, tutorials and lengthy instructive posts. You earned your success and deserve to get paid!

I admit I do miss when you used to blog more, but it's because I love your blog. Your blog was the first sewing blog that I started reading, and it inspired me to finally start sewing (at age 38, it's never too late) when I had been wanting to for years. I also love your take on feminism. But those things are about me not you. I'm so happy for you. It's natural that you wouldn't have as much time for that now. It's wrong to begrudge someone their success. Haters are gonna hate.

Good for you! Just keep being awesome. Eventually we'll be able to see what you're working on when it comes out. So I suppose you could save some work in progress photos to share then? I know how you feel a bit as I work in animation and 90% of the stuff I do can never be shown even after a project has completed and aired.

It's great that you share your thoughts like this. I think it's a way of showing that success costs, right? I think you're doing great, and although I sometimes miss your blog from 3 years ago, I'm so proud of what you've achieved, and wouldn't NOT wanted all that to have happened!!! Both Kestrel and thegarmentfarmer have important points. I hope you are proud of yourself. You have all the rights to be!

(Oh, and how cool isn't the ukulele! I happend to buy one myself last Thursday! Another ball to jiggle, but luckily not aiming for 'success')

Hi Gertie loved your post! I feel like when all those balls are bouncing the light is at the end of the tunnel stress! to mix methaphors :) Im teaching myself to sew some cute dresses and skirts for my 1yr old daughter. I was wondering if you have any advice on cutting up my wedding dress to make pillows and a dress for my daughter. Its satin and has a sweetheart neckline with a bustier with fitted to the knees and a six foot train with beading. So any advice for all the layers underneath would be greatly appreciated. Thnaks! Sonya

There are tons of blogs out there showing what people are sewing. I think we, as women should be happy for a woman like you who has been able to turn something she loves into a career. I love seeing your success!!! Had I discovered sewing blogs sooner and had been following your blog, I may have been dissapointed when it changed, but would have never have been upset with you about it. If anything, I would have been proud of you for your success. I would not worry about the complaints. There are plenty of people out there who see your success for what it is and are very happy for you. Enjoy your success. You deserve to enjoy what you have been able to accomplish for yourself!!!

People grow, mature and change and so has your blog. I see nothing wrong with that. You wouldn't want it to be stagnant. I miss not seeing as many posts since you've been so busy, but I think it's wonderful that you're making a career out of sewing-something you love.

And when you're REALLY famous, I can say: I read her blog way back when AND I have an autographed copy of her first book!

Hi Gertie, I started reading your blog years ago.. it was really the first sewing blog I followed. I so looked forward to your daily posts and felt like I had found an awesome teacher and internet friend that I could relate to (hopefully that didn't sound too creepy). Being connected to your blog and the community you created even helped me get through some really tough times.

But we all grow and change and while sometimes I miss the daily posts, I absolutely love your book, and can't wait for your new ones! It's so important to always challenge ourselves and expand our reach and enjoy the moment. Everyone evolves, so ignore the nostalgia veiled as criticism and thoroughly enjoy all that you have accomplished and the amazing things that you continue to do!

I only found you a month or so ago, so I don't know the old blog. But I love what I have found! You are posting lots of information that as a beginning sewer (oh lord. sewist?) I can't always use, but I do tuck it away, and sometimes it even comes back to me later when I am trying to do something. I think you're in a weird intermediary place, so just keep going with the flow, and you'll flow and morph into something excellent!

Your little Rosie looks just like my dog Spike. I got him at the pound, he was a stray. They told us he was a miniature pinscher. But I noticed while he did look like the minpin he was different. Well, my son found a picture of a dog, the English Toy Terrier and now we know what our dog is. He is that dog to a T! Google this dog and you'll see what I mean : )I still enjoy reading your blog.

Wow, here we see another great reason for your luscious pink hair: it coordinates so nicely with Mr. Henry's grey flannel suit. :)I hope you're keeping up with your yoga! Nothing melts stress like a good savasana.

Ohhhh, I read a comment on another person's blog about how [one of the commenter's favorite blogs] had turned into the blogger just promoting her projects, I could not for the life of me figure out who she was talking about-- and I've even been following you for a long time! That's not to say I haven't noticed the change, but really, there are tons and tons of sewing blogs out there that show dresses all the time, I'm sure people can get their fixes that way while still enjoying your blog as a peek inside the pro world!

I'm a huge fan/follower of your work and I really love that your professional work has meant that there are more ways for us to enjoy the fruits of your work (patterns, book etc) rather than just watching from afar :) On another note - I really don't want to be hurtful but I'm a little bit disappointed that you didn't use this post as an opportunity to talk a little about what happened with your Craftsy courses. I completely understand needing to draw back from commitments when you're stretched too thin, but the radio silence was frustrating.

I'm of the belief that it's your blog and have the right to post whatever you want. I personally love hearing about your upcoming books and patterns because it just means that my sewing options have just expanded! And really, who doesn't want to hear about a great new pattern?

Keep doing what you're doing, Gertie! We love the books and the patterns. And while your blog has changed, I think it's for the better. And I have to say it's a huge inspiration for those of us who also dream of "going pro".

Hi Gertie! I've been a long-time reader of your blog and I was just telling a new friend about you! I was commenting to her about how your blog has evolved over time and I acknowledged that you don't publish as much sewing tutorial-type things as you used to but I told her about all the other things you've been able to do since you started writing and we both concluded that you making a career out of this was the best thing ever!!! I guess what I'd like to say is that I've noticed things changing but I don't blame you one bit and I still keep tabs on all the cool projects you're up to. I do think you're mistaken about the in-progress stuff though. I really enjoy hearing about how Lauren Reeser, who blogs at the American Duchess, develops her shoes. As a consumer of her product I like being involved in polls for which colours to produce and seeing what shoes in which collections she uses as inspiration and even hearing about her trials and tribulations working with a factory! Now how your publishers feel about it is another thing but I think you’ll find your readers would enjoy hearing about, and perhaps contributing to, some of the things you're working on.

Yep, haters gonna hate...count me as a long time reader (two plus years) and I think how you've changed, grown, spread your wings is wonderful and so inspiring!

All I can imagine about the people complaining is that they somehow expect you to remain a static, unchanging commodity for them to consume, instead of a human being. It's like they're little kids stamping their feet, demanding that you entertain them :)

"It's like they're little kids stamping their feet, demanding that you entertain them"

Well that's a little rude.

I explained below, but I'll say it here too. Gertie's blog really doesn't work for me anymore. I'm a plus size woman. I can't use her patterns or her book. I am happy to help support her work, but I sure as hell am NOT going to a buy a product I can't even use.

Maybe it is rude, but that's still my take on people being upset that something that they get *for free* that is the hard work of an actual human being who has the right to change *her* blog to suit her needs.

And for the record, I'm a plus size woman, too, but everything I've learned about altering patterns to fit me (including Gertie's), I've learned from books I've purchased, classes taken at an amazing store an hour away, and even driving 1.5 hours to have a custom pants pattern drafted for me.

Perhaps I'm old-fashioned, but I very much want to properly compensate the skilled folks who teach me and take their time to post content online. You mention below that you try to click on ads you find interesting in order to support Gertie, but I can't imagine that the revenue from that does more than pay for her thread.

Then go and draft your own dress and stop wasting time leaving rude comments here. Gertie is an independent pattern designer and can't be expected to cater for everyone. She is clearly upset by some comments so why be so rude as to add more?

I can so relate to what you are saying. We really do have so many balls to juggle as women. It doesn't bother me a bit that your posts have changed. I find it rather exciting and inspirational that you have the opportunity to do so many different things and at the same time making a great contribution to the sewing community. I don't mind hearing about your feelings either because it makes it all personal. I love hearing about what's going on in your life even if we can't see the process. I am here to stay as your committed fan.

It's awesome that you can go pro with your pattern making. I am hoping to one day be good enough to maybe make stuff for family and friends without embarrassment. I love your first book and think the idea of more casual clothes is a winner. (I need something to slob around in that doesn't look like I'm slobbing around)

The only thing I lament is that you're making clothes for models instead of yourself now. I hope that doesn't mean that you have to make 2 of everything! Are you still using your measurements as your base size?

All I can say is Thank you for sharing. You are very stressed but very Happy, and that is so important. You have to be true to yourself, and besides I would swap and do what you are doing any day. Your blog is an extension of you and what you are doing in your life, and if some people don't like it that is ok. I figure there is one extra person in life doing what she loves, that is a bonus. And the pay off for me is your patterns and other information that is in the blog. You can't please everyone, but a bigger tragedy would be going back to life working in an office!

Hey Gertie,I would love it if you could give us tips on how to take pictures of our clothes once they are done. How about tips on what to wear with the clothes once we have them finished and where to buy cool vintage accessories? How about tips on what kinds of fabric to use as I am sometimes confused about that? You don't have to show us what you are making-give us tips on how you came to be so awesome so we can do what you do! And maybe a few on how you keep up that fab pink do!

I'm really impressed that you have taken the time to share your feelings with us. The most important thing is to do what makes you happy and follow the path that you want to. I like the fact that your posts have changed. While I still look back to your older posts for tutorials, I find it really inspirational to see what you are up to now and it helps drive me on to try new and more advanced items and techniques. Keep up the good work!

I totally hear exactly what you are saying. I started a sewing blog and had hoped to gain more of a reader base, but really other things in my life have kept me from really frequently posting and developing content. Heck even my sewing is sporadic.

Yes blogs change and evolve, yes there is areal human being behind the blogs with feelings an'all ( thanks Oprah) . That's not the issue here. Everyone is free to choose what they read on the blogosphere and take their pick of what they feel they relate to/ enjoy/ can learn fromRegardless of all these aspects, I'm sorry to say that this has got to qualify as the most self indulgent post blog I have ever read from someone who, having succeeded in some areas of their craft, still seeks validation in areas they have neglected as a result. Hail to the sewing community for being so blindingly supportive

You know, women would rule the world if they (we) would put aside all this type of sniping against other women who become successful. There's even an article about it in the Wall Street Journal. I'm thrilled for Gertie, and I find it contemptible that her putting herself out there makes someone like you consider her "self indulgent".

Thanks for sharing. You are human, loveable and fallable, just like the rest of us! Hang on in there. Like a mother lioness, when I see negative comments I stand up for the little cub ( thats you )and wonder why............I guess everyone has a bad day now and then, and dont always think how the negative vibes effect people. So, I hope you dont take things too heart too much.

We all have gained from your blog, your experiences in life and sewing, and we are all behind you. I have both of your craftsy courses, haven't got around to the suit one, due to health probs. I have your book and it will go with me next week, when I check in for surgery on my shoulder. I will be having a bit of a break from sewing, but then will look forward to putting all the reading into practice. Perhaps all the Gertie fans should have a "show and tell" on your blog so that you can see how many of us around the world you have inspired and coached on to greater and better projects. Hugs from the U.K. Marysia.

Yes, your blog has changed some, but that's what life is all about. I've learned so much from your blog and what you have shared about your life. Take care of yourself and don't stress too much. Thank you for being you!

I think your doing a good of keeping everything balanced. You have to view your products (and you should consider them that now) as a outgrowth of your blog. What you lack in blog you make up for in books/patterns.

Trust me your nowhere as bad as some bloggers who are like "I got a book deal" then no posts for 2 years then "Look my books is out" and then wonders when their readers went.

I wouldn't mind hearing about the process you have to go through to get a design from sketch to printed pattern.

Busy girl! I've gotta say I would find the process of patternmaking for a large company fascinating to hear about in detail, but understand you have to keep mum. I find the attitude publishers take to hiding the project-in-progress so odd... everyone knows anticipation and teases BUILD sales. Does everyone decide they won't bother with Christmas by the 25th of December because the hypes been overdone? Tim Ferris' approach to pre-launch marketing (he seems to start it about a year before launch) is worth looking into. And I wonder if this 'spoiler' experiment has any relevance:http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2011/08/spoilers-dont-spoil-anything/

I am a long time reader and huge fan of your blog. I have missed you lately as your posts have become less frequent. I have really enjoyed watching you turn your passion into a thriving career. Quite frankly I am jealous. I sit at a desk job every day and have to squeeze in my bouts of creativity. I enjoy living vicariously through your blog. I love your book and the new patterns (which are on their way to me now). They give me the opportunity to follow in your footsteps and develop my own craft. You are truly a fabulous resource in the home sewing community. I wish you much continued success and happiness in whatever way your life continues to evolve.

Ditto what everyone says about the evolution and that being fine etc. I still enjoy reading you, and yes I sew now because of you so I couldn't possibly be unhappy for your success...but I do miss the VNBBS posts, I'm still drooling over the full-skirted dress and the fitted suit, and living in hope that one day you'll get time to finish the 14 Vogue patterns! In the meantime, I have your Gertie patterns to get my needles into :-)

Just so you know....You are SUPPOSED to blog about your business. It's nice to have a blog with tips, hints etc, etc. but you know others do it to. I think it's nice that you still find the time to do posts at all. Just my opinion - and don't let naysayers step on your buzz!

You have to do more work but you can use hers and other too small patterns. I can't recommend lynda Maynard's craftsy class enough. She shows in great detail how to adjust patterns and fit them. I'm a plus size girl too but I will be making these newest patterns. I've already made the sundress from the book.

If I want to adjust patterns up several sizes, and make major alterations, I'd rather just make my own pattern. It's way easier to use a basic dress pattern that fits you well, and just make design detail changes, like the neckline, type of sleeve, or skirt style.

I'm not really sure why you feel like Gertie is requiring or even demanding that we purchase her patterns in order to read her blog. She's telling us about her exciting new work, and yes some of that is self-promotion and selling her products, but really, so what? I don't think we have a right to expect any particular content be provided to us for free from any blogger or company, for that matter.I would be totally with you if you had phrased your comments as a request for plus-sized variants of her patterns or more content geared to plus-sized sewists, but the way you presented yourself was (or at least came across as) extremely negative and demanding.

I too have missed the regular blogging and have found myself checking your page less frequently. Congratulations on parlaying what was once a hobby into a full time job doing exactly what you love. I have enjoyed the patterns and book and look forward to more in the future.

And on the other hand, I would say that a robust blog is an important social media tool that supports your other "businesses" and allows your readers, fans and "consumers" to connect with you in a more frequent and meaningful way. Perhaps an intern or part-time assistant could be in your future, and a way to alleviate some of the stress?

Thank you for sharing and well wishes balancing it all and figuring out the growing pains.

Tish tosh! Life is busy, wonderful, and full of opportunities, but we can't do everything, all the time, at 100% capacity.

Always lovely to see what you're up to, but life goes on, changes, presents new challenges for us all. Do what you gotta do! I have gotten *so* much from your blog, and now your book, and I can't begin to imagine the hours that must have gone in to it. That book is jam-packed with info!

On another note, SO excited about your new patterns that I have flying across the world to me, I can't wait until they arrive :o)

You're doing a great job and you're a genuine inspiration Gertie! There's absolutely no reason for you to apologise for working darned hard to turn your passion into a 'career', I actually can't believe some people would complain about the changing content of your blog. We're all constantly evolving as our our interests, responsibilities, workloads etc...change happens ;o)

I think your blog is a great resource for techniques and love when you release new patterns/books(just bought the new pants/top, can't wait to try it)Maybe the people are just jealous that they haven't had the same success as you?Maybe they just miss you because you don't blog as often:) I think your blog is very balanced and suits all kinds of seamstresses :)

[jumps on bandwagon] I am a long time reader, so I have seen the change. Certainly miss the detailed sew alongs and tutorials, but I'm also still delighted to read about your career, your adventures, your hair, your cats. You have followed a path that has lead you to fabulous places, and so long as YOU are happy, you should ignore the naysayers. You cannot do it all, and if this blog which birthed it all doesn't survive exactly as it began, then that's just life. We don't expect our children to stay infants, and you can't expect every project to remain stagnant. You continue to charm and inspire, so just keep rockin' your badass self! And maybe post more pictures of what you wear day-to-day, cuz inquiring minds want to know how to be so stylish! ;-). Mwah!!

What attracts me to your blog, book, patterns and other endeavours is that you truly love sewing... and it shows. It's infectious! I hope your love of sewing is not stifled by the expectations of your fan base and a few lame comments. What makes an artist great in the first place is years of experimentation, meeting new challenges, and following a passion wherever it takes you. It would be short-sighted to ask you to stop evolving now. I look forward to the next level of 'sewing awesomeness' and general badassed-ness these new avenues will inevitably lead to.

I want to learn to play the uke! Ever since I Kate Micucci played on Scrubs.

But for serious, I liked reading this and it is kind of nice to know that people in the sewing blogosphere who seem to have it all together (i.e. you!), sometimes feel like everything is just barely holding together. I know I feel like that all the time! I am working two jobs, one of which I need to volunteer most of my free time in order to advance my career, as well as having to cook, clean, and somewhere in there make time for my husband, my friends, and myself. It is not easy. So I guess I am saying, I'm very sympathetic? And keep up the great blogging, whatever you may happen to blog about!

I bought an ukelele a couple of years ago, never been touched. ;) Oh well. Why don't you get some guest bloggers to "eat up" some blogging space for you? I'm sure there's plenty of sewing bloggers just as chic and retro as you are. :) Maybe you could get an assistant? Not to uncommon for big bloggers, someone to help you with an "easy" sew-along. :) Sew-alongs always gets people going.

People change. You change, your readers change, and you can't please everyone. I think you're doing a great job, and I still enjoy your blog now almost as much as I did 3 years ago. Sure, I miss the sewing posts a bit, but I'm so happy and proud for you that it doesn't matter.

can I just say - wildly excited that this passion has turned profession isn't that just SO wonderful??? LOVE it. If that means other things change don't forget that you are a bright light saying 'it can happen' and so whatever things are different they are also very inspiring and encouraging. Put the balls (he he) down and just play us a tune! :o)

I think it's great how much your blog & your career have changed in the two years I've been a reader. I'm most interested in the construction details you always give - so I really enjoyed the Butterick coat articles for example. They are part of the new blog & still satisfied me.

I admit I don't check on your blog as often as I used to, because those kinds of posts are less frequent. That's fine with me though - quality is more important than quantity, and I love your book & the more demure of the Butterick patterns.

I also love that your blog has evolved. And I still enjoy reading about all your sewing adventures, even if they're new and different. (But I selfishly admit that I would love to see all the VNBBS garments complete - my ocd side is sad that some of them are missing.)That said, if I were to choose between complete VNBBS set and book published, it'd be book Every.Single.Time.Keep 'em coming Gertie!

I'm reading your blog back from the beginning, so I have a lot of 'new' blog posts to read still. I am so pleased that you are now successful in doing something that you are clearly passionate about. Just keep on with the blogging please, maybe not as often obviously, but rest assured I will always read whatever you have to say. You're one in a million!

Of course we miss your posts on technics and beautifus garments you made but I think we all understand that change is good. Your blog has been one of the biggest inspiration to me in terms of sewing, blgging and pursuing my own dreams. And seeing you make it gives me hope that maybe one day somebody will complain that my blog has changed (hopefully because I have a book deal and I am designing my own patterns). Thank so much Gertie and please, do not apologize for your success, you deserve it.Love from Spain.

Gertie I love your Blog... and you are a great inspiration. I love reading about your Book and your patterns.. and of corse all those beutifull Dresses and such that you sew (when you have the time) Times just change.. thats ok, we all have to go with the flow!! I can't wait to order your book!! But I have to wait till after Easter, I have given up spending buying sewing stuff for Lent... and let me tell you that is not at all easy!! Have a great DayPetra from Germany

Its nice to see someone (you) who we feel we know getting on in life, doing the thing they most enjoy, whats that saying "when your hobby becomes your work, its not work". I'm glad that things are going so well for you. I look forward to another book and more patterns. Well done you xx

Some fantastic comments here, Gertie. The suggestion that you maybe take on a part-time assistant is inspired. If you can afford to do so (I'm not a big fan of the fashion for long-term unpaid interns) that could really help save your sanity. Also, to echo other thoughts: this is your blog and you can do what you damn well like with it. That's the joy of blogging - you're answerable only to yourself. Blogs change, of course they do. That's the advantage they have over more traditional formats such as books. As readers, we love glimpses of the real person, so this heartfelt blog post can only help you and your audience. Blogging can be a huge strain when life is hard. I'm just glad to know that you have a husband, dog, cat and ukelele to keep you sane and provide the hugs. But we wouldn't even know that if you hadn't already shared your life so generously. Chin up. This too, in time, shall pass...

We understand completely,we just miss you :)Maybe repost some older posts or have guest vintage bloggers for when your away too long so we dont suffer from withdrawal !Ps,your sewing patterns are on my wish list .

I totally understand about stress and feeling like you need to juggle all the balls (hehe...balls) I started out sewing and making dresses for myself, then I started making them for others. Then, I started sewing other things and doing indie craft fairs. I loved that crafty handmade community scene so much that I started trying to bring it to my hometown of Toledo by creating handmade toledo and a show called maker's mart. All while being a teacher and playing roller derby.Which left me with barely enough time to make dresses or really anything for myself. Am I busy? Yes. Always. I'm never not working.But I wouldn't change it for anything in the world. There is no turning back. (I feel like now would be an appropriate time to high five someone to celebrate all of your/our/everyone's accomplishments)

I completely understand how you feel Gertie - things move on.Your early sewing and tailoring blogs and videos were fantastic, helped me no end, and they're still there for us to refer to.Wishing you much success in your professional roles.Pat.

Big hugs to both you and Rosie! I get the stress part of being a "modern woman". Often wonder how many different directions we can actually be pulled in...Hang in there...and I don't know how to sew..but you've inspired me to learn.XOXO

I think you are doing great! Don't stress about the people who complain about the new direction you and your blog are taking. I will gladly take little tidbits about anything you put on your blog in exchange for your great patterns and books =) Thanks so much for all your hard work and creativity. You are a great inspiration to me!

Any post with cats is a great post. Take care of yourself! Do what you want and need to do, and do no more than that. I'm in graduate school, and I am personally so exhausted (pun intended) of the implicit competition to be the most sleep deprived, overworked person in the room. I sleep 9 hours a night. I cook my own meals. I take weekends off and I spend time with my husband. And I only work 45 hours a week. I do these things because overworking, which I swore I never would do, nearly caused me to have a clinical breakdown, and it was for nothing-- working more did not translate into being more productive or producing better work. In fact, I think the work I did was worse. But more importantly, it wasn't worth it because it robbed me of time for myself and for the people I care about. I want to do work that is rewarding and meaningful, but working is a means to an end, which is taking care of myself, my partner, and my kittens.

I think that the great thing about a blog is that it's YOUR blog. You can take it in whatever direction your life goes, because it's yours to do what you want with. Naturally you are in a different place than you were 3 years ago, which is awesome. I really enjoy reading everything you post!

It's great that you've gotten to the point where your passion is also your profession, and we readers won't begrudge you that at all! Thank you for sharing your thoughts, it reminds us that no person stands still and we can't seriously expect you to do the exact same thing for decades. I do miss the more sewing rich post, but I also enjoy reading about your inspirations and side projects. If you miss talking about sewing, maybe you could sneak in some posts about tricky fabric selection, a new notion or tool you're using, tips on selecting patterns for different body types or other related topics without going into the details of your project? Just a thought. Thank you for all your hard work! -Cindy D.

Taking your passion and turning it into a profession is never easy. Especially in an industry like the one you are working in. I want you to know how much I have enjoyed your blog. I discovered it last summer and must have read through all your old posts. I began sewing much more for myself and am proud to say I wear many garments that I have made. You are vivacious, and passionate, and you are doing something wonderful. So keep it up. Don't let yourself get overwhelmed and burnt out. With that in mind have you ever thought about transitioning BFBS into a sewing/vintage magazine format? You could periodically have guest writers on, and you could curate the whole thing? And then you could have one or two weekly posts in which you talk about the wonderful stuff you talk about? You have such insightful observations about feminism, culture and fashion. Your post don't even have to be about your sewing projects. Just a thought. I am not sure if that would add more to your plate or less. But since you were an editor at one point it might be up your alley? You have an amazing brand, and it seems to come naturally to you. But it doesn't have to all be on your shoulders. P.S. I have never commented on your blog before, but this post seemed like you should have a virtual hug and some encouragement. Is there an emoticon for hug? ( ) ?

OK, I'm just gonna put this out there, because I have been seeing this lately as some of my favorite bloggers and some personal friends have been fortunate enough to "make it" in the biz. Fans/blogosphere friends come at this from different angles depending on their general attitude and what they perceive as your role in their lives. Some folks are excited for you and happy for your success, and we may miss you, but ultimately we are glad you got to quit your day job and make the big time. Some folks feel like people who turn their hobby into a business/professional venture are "selling out" and are only interested in self promotion. This seems stupid to me. I mean, it used to be, you might show us a dress, and tell us you made it from Vogue pattern xyz. Were you only interested in Vogue promotion? Of course not. Now you get to make patterns you designed and are available for sale, a dream come true that most of us are at least slightly jealous of--why would you not talk about this? Calling it "self promotion" is inaccurate and hurtful. So to conclude, my internet pal, don't let people get you down, haters gonna hate and all that. It's pretty fantastic to make it big from a sewing blog, and I can only be wildly excited about it for you. Drop us a note when you can, and keep sewing beautiful things. I for one will keep coming around.

Anyone who has the nerve to complain that they're not getting what they feel they deserve from a FREE online resource really needs to get a life. Blogging is hard work in general, let alone doing all of the tutorials and sew alongs that you have done. There's almost endless information in the posts you've done in the past (I recently started going back and reading the originals from 2009) Not to mention an entire world full of new sewing bloggers out there doing their own thing, waiting to be discovered. No, Gertie, you have absolutely nothing to apologize for. You are living the dream. I will gladly pay money for the products of an independent person making beautiful things.

I have just seen this post and was about to comment but I think you have said it perfectly and I could not agree more. How dare anyone complain. Anyone who has been reading this blog for some time will be happy for you gertie and glad to see you make a living out of it x

I think it is wonderful that you have "made it". You are the second of my friends (Tom and Lorenzo of "Project Rungay" fame are the others) who have been able to leave your office job to pursue your passion. Brava! I wish you all the best and I can't wait to see your next book/patterns!

Woman! I've been reading you for a while and you have inspired me a lot. I have passed, since I discovered you, from sewing almost hidden, ashamed of my anacronic habits, to proudly display my works in the internet. It is relieving to know I am not the only one out there taking this passion so seriously!Throughout this time, I have witnessed you passing from amateur sewist blogger to a professional teacher, designer and blogger. And I have always though, how you manage to juggle so many balls, how can you not stress yourself. I know how much it takes to design, draw and construct any garment, and I am impressed at your capacity of work. Now, I am a little (just a little) bit older that you are, and in this advantatge years I have learnt not to juggle too many balls, if I want the fun to continue and my health (mental and physical) to endure. So, Gertie, learn to say "no", ant take it easy.In another order of things, I was late to the Butterick offer. Lat us know if they put your dress on sale again, it is gorgeous.

It's funny that the first time I've checked your blog in an age would be this post. I'm not a "hater" just a very long time reader (2009)who gave up checking in with you when the posts became less of interest to me. You should be applauded for turning a great personal interest into a successful business. The difficulty of balancing that business with the very thing that led you to this success cannot be easy. That being said, I see your posts now as a means of self-promotion and not as a journey of self-discovery. A very subtle distinction that has happened to so many of the wonderful bloggers that I began reading several years ago. You have always struck me as a smart and thoughtful person, so I'm confident you chose to accept the opportunities that have been presented to you that will not compromise your values or brand. This seems like a break-up to me and all the cliches that would go with a break-up would apply... You've found someone else....You've changed.... We've grown apart.... We want different things....It's me not you...etc...I wish you great success and happiness!

We've all got to look out for #1 first. Sure, your blog has changed and sometimes I wish I could see the conclusion of the original concept; but that really is your perogative. Some people might not like the change, but others will like it more. Just like everything in this world - new menus, changes in newspapers, movie versions of books etc etc. Frankly, I don't know how anyone finds time to ever blog consistently - I am unable too! - so do whatever makes your heart sing. Jeepers, no wonder I don't blog often - my comments are pages long! ;-)

Hi Gertie. I've never bemoaned the changes on your blog because it's been so great to see you following your passion and making it work for you! You are an inspiration and I totally get that you can't blog in the same way now that you have gone pro! Your posts are still full of pretty and exciting sewingness.

You go girl! Love your blog! You are a great inspiration to me and your blog is the first blog I check every day. When your first Butterick patterns were published I felt the pride and joy I would feel as if you were my friend - which in a way you are, courtesy of the internet. Good luck with all those balls in the air. I admire you for pursuing your dreams!

I am always slightly amazed when people spend time going on to blogs and complain that the blogger wasn't writing what they wanted to read, when they wanted to read it - if that's the case, go and read a different one! I read blogs because they are an exciting window on someone else's life, how they go about doing things I might day dream about, and when people are generous enough to put up tips which I find useful that's a bonus - I don't expect them to be anticipating my every learning need for the rest of my life - I can go and get that from elsewhere. And in every blog I look at I find some posts interesting and relevant to me and some less so.

So well done on your success, you should be proud of it, and not be feeling guilty that you can't service everyone's needs. The changes in the frequency and content of your blog reflects changes in your life, and that's fine. I don't see anyone complaining when bloggers have a baby and don't have time or energy to post as frequently, and when they do they might post about slightly different things reflecting their changed circumstances - everyone thinks that's fine. But it's the same - it's a lifestyle change. Don't feel guilty for moving forward.

Yours were the first sewing blog I really got interested in. And I was SO pleased for you when you were able to give up your office job and launch on this new career. Your blog should reflect your life, isn't that the point of it? Forget the rude commenters, accept those who politely point out that this isn't for them anymore but they wish you luck (an entirely acceptable position to take), and feel happy that so many of us are so happy for you.

Dear Gertie, I have followed your blog for years without commenting, but I could not leave this post without telling you that I really appreciate the time and effort you put into this blog. You earned your succes and have every reason to feel proud. You taught me a lot, here and in your book, and I'm sure that for every negative voice in the comment columns there are hundreds of supportive readers out there like me, who just don't post comments very often.

Do what makes you happy, merge job and blogging as best as you can and wish to, that's all we readers can ask for. Thank you :-)

You know, your life changes and so the blog changes. That's ok. It's ok to pursue your dreams and have a career that many are envious of. It's ok that your blog changes away from what in many ways got you that career in the first place. I for one still like to read your blog and still learn things from it, and still love the thought-provoking discussions. No worries. No guilt.

If it does feel like your blog is more about your 'products' now, don't feel bad - you came by it honestly. You're earned the right to talk about your patterns on your blog when it was your blog that created the opportunity. And it isn't just about mindless consumerism - you aren't shilling cheap made-in-China dresses but beautiful patterns that allow us to sew our own!

Hello Gertie, Glad to hear you are on vacation, you richly deserve one! Wanted to let you know I finally finished the coat, you know the sewing blog started last Oct'12. The journey was life changing. Your sewing blogs kept me busy and going while I battled a liver/gallbladder cancer diagnosis received mid Nov'12. You were and are a great inspiration. Coat is beautiful, a deep Persian Midnight Blue wool, used the flannel lined lining you suggested(it gets cold in central Wisconsin)and I'm enjoying wearing her wherever I go! Next project is the lovely sundress! You have a Great Vacation! God Bless~Sherry